Identifying Genes That Cause Cell Death
Author Information
Author(s): Lin Bevan, Huntley Derek, AbuAli Ghada, Langley Sarah R., Sindelar George, Petretto Enrico, Butcher Sarah, Grimm Stefan
Primary Institution: Imperial College London
Hypothesis
Can a high-throughput genetic screen identify novel regulators of apoptosis?
Conclusion
The study identified 74 genes that can induce apoptosis, many of which are novel regulators of this process.
Supporting Evidence
- 74 genes were identified that initiate apoptosis when transfected into human cells.
- 91% of the identified genes are novel regulators of apoptosis.
- The screen achieved a high sensitivity in detecting apoptosis-inducing genes.
- Many of the identified genes are linked to specific cancers and degenerative diseases.
Takeaway
The researchers found many new genes that can make cells die, which helps us understand how cell death works.
Methodology
A high-throughput screen was conducted using 96-well plates to test approximately 100,000 cDNA clones for their ability to induce apoptosis in human cells.
Limitations
The screen may not capture all apoptosis regulators, and the findings are based on a specific cell type.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.009
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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